This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic, featuring vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, following the package instructions.
Adding a bit of salt to the boiling water enhances the pasta's flavor.
Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Rinsing the pasta also prevents it from sticking together.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped bell peppers.
Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
Pour the zesty Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly for the best flavor.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and makes it more refreshing.
Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
If the pasta has absorbed too much dressing, add a little more to refresh the salad.